The famous brand Breitling, whose name is associated with aviation, carries the past to the present with its new but faithful to the original versions of the Chronomat model family it added to its product line in the 1980s.
The Chronomat model family has an important place in the Breitling product line. Introduced in the 1980s, when thin, battery-powered models were popular, the model attracted attention with its strong case, bold presence, and mechanical caliber. Based on the model made for the famous Italian aerobatic team Frecce Tricolori in 1983, the Chronomat was also the starting point of modern Breitling chronographs.
The new Chronomat Chronograph B01 42 Collection, introduced in recent months, collects many details that refer to the model's history. The models, where modern touches are applied in a balanced way, seem to be appreciated by all watch lovers, especially Breitling fans.
The model I have here for review, Ref. UB0134101B1U1 comes in a stainless-steel case with a diameter of 42mm and a height of 15.10mm. The water resistance value of the case, which is equipped with sapphire crystals with anti-reflection coating on both sides, is set at 200 meters, which is more than enough for a sports chronograph model. The model, which is prepared following the Two-Tone concept, is accompanied by an 18K rose gold bezel, a screw-down winding crown, and a pair of chronograph pushers.
The dial of the model is finished in anthracite tone, which I think is one of the most successful companions of the models with the Stainless Steel/18K Rose Gold combination. In the dial, which is accompanied by rose gold-tone hands and markers, the upper part of the chronograph’s second counter is finished in red. While the black background used in the Tri-Compax array sub-dials provides sufficient contrast for readability, it also brings the model's luxury/sporty theme to the fore. The black background date display, which is hidden in the sub-dial at 6 o'clock, is also designed to fulfill its task without compromising the integrity of the dial.
The new model includes the manufacture Caliber Breitling 01 movement. The 47 jewels automatic-chronograph movement, which is used in many different models of the brand, has a working frequency of 4Hz (28.800vph) and a power reserve of 70 hours when fully wound.
The most striking detail about the current Chronomat Chronograph B01 42 Collection is undoubtedly the metal bracelet accompanying the models... The Rouleaux metal bracelet, which looks like it jumped right out of the 1980s, offers a perfect harmony with the Retro character of the model. The bracelet, which consists of thin links in a cylindrical form, features stainless steel and 18K rose gold pieces. The bracelet, which is appreciated for its solid architecture that feels like an elegant cuff on the wrist as well as its flowing design, is accompanied by a push-button hidden clasp.
I can say that I like the Breitling Chronomat Chronograph B01 42 Collection, especially with the model I chose for review. I am very pleased that the Chronomat model family, which I have found perhaps a little too bold for a long time, has seen such a retro yet stylish update. I experienced a similar situation with the brand's new models prepared in partnership with Bentley. Seeing that Georges Kern manages the brand so well also makes me very happy as a Breitling-loving watch enthusiast.
